Effaclar Deep Cleansing Foaming Cream Cleanser
Effaclar Deep Cleansing Foaming Cream Cleanser
Product Description
Product overview
A dermatologist-recommended cream-to-foam cleanser formulated with Salicylic Acid and Glycerin to deeply cleanse oily and acne-prone skin, visibly minimize pores, and remove excess oil without over-drying.
Deep Pore Cleansing
Cream texture develops into a rich foam that penetrates pores to remove dirt, oil, and impurities effectively.
Texture & feel
SENSORYDeep Pore Cleansing
Cream texture develops into a rich foam that penetrates pores to remove dirt, oil, and impurities effectively.
Salicylic Acid (BHA)
Beta hydroxy acid gently exfoliates inside pores, helping to prevent breakouts and minimize pore appearance.
Glycerin Hydration
Plant-derived glycerin helps maintain skin's moisture balance, preventing the tight, stripped feeling.
Gentle Surfactants
Coco-Glucoside provides thorough yet gentle cleansing suitable for daily use on sensitive skin.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains salicylic acid. Low-dose topical BHA (under 2%) is generally considered acceptable by ACOG, but consult your healthcare provider before use.
Topical salicylic acid at low concentrations is unlikely to be absorbed into breastmilk. Avoid applying near areas that contact baby.
Not safe. Contains fatty acids (Myristic, Stearic, Lauric, Palmitic Acid) that can feed malassezia yeast and trigger flare-ups.
Formula includes parfum/fragrance. Those with fragrance sensitivities may want to patch test first.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSSalicylic AcidProven
A beta hydroxy acid (BHA) that is oil-soluble, allowing it to penetrate into pores and exfoliate from within. Helps clear and refine the appearance of pores while reducing excess oil.
- Mechanism: Dissolves the bonds between dead skin cells, promoting cell turnover
- Benefits: Unclogs pores, reduces blackheads, anti-inflammatory properties
- Research: FDA-approved OTC acne treatment ingredient
Glycerin HighProven
A powerful humectant derived from vegetable sources that attracts and retains moisture in the skin, helping to maintain hydration balance even while cleansing.
- Function: Draws water from the environment and deeper skin layers to the surface
- Benefits: Prevents tight, dry feeling after cleansing
- Safety: Extremely well-tolerated by all skin types
Coco-GlucosideProven
A gentle, plant-derived surfactant made from coconut oil and glucose. Creates a stable, moderate foam while effectively removing dirt and oil without stripping the skin.
- Source: Coconut/palm kernel oil and glucose
- Benefits: Biodegradable, mild to skin, creates rich lather
- Rating: EWG rated 1 (lowest hazard)
Fatty Acid Complex (Myristic, Stearic, Lauric, Palmitic Acid)
A blend of naturally-occurring fatty acids that contribute to the creamy texture, foam-building properties, and skin-conditioning effects of the cleanser.
- Myristic Acid: Primary foam-building agent from coconut/palm kernel oil
- Lauric Acid: Shows antimicrobial properties against acne-causing P. acnes bacteria
- Stearic/Palmitic: Common skin emollients that help soften and smooth
12 ingredients
Water, Glycerin, Myristic Acid, Potassium Hydroxide, Glyceryl Stearate SE, Stearic Acid, Lauric Acid, Palmitic Acid, Coco-Glucoside, Tetrasodium EDTA, Parfum/Fragrance, Salicylic Acid
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse as the first step in your skincare routine. For double cleansing, use an oil cleanser first to remove makeup/sunscreen, then follow with this cleanser.
How to use
HOW TO USEWet Your Face
Splash lukewarm water on your face. Avoid hot water as it can strip natural oils and irritate skin.
Lather in Palms
Squeeze a nickel-sized amount of cleanser into wet palms. Rub hands together to create a rich, creamy foam.
Massage Gently
Apply foam to face using circular motions for 30-60 seconds. Focus on oily areas like T-zone. Avoid eye area.
Rinse Thoroughly
Rinse with lukewarm water until all residue is removed. Pat dry gently with a clean towel - don't rub.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin
- You struggle with enlarged pores
- You want a deep clean without over-drying
- You prefer cream-to-foam textures
- You need a cleanser that removes makeup and sunscreen
- You want a dermatologist-recommended product
Consider alternatives if:
- You have fungal acne (malassezia folliculitis)
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin
- You are sensitive to fragrance
- You prefer completely fragrance-free products
- You need a pregnancy-safe cleanser (consult doctor)
- You have eczema or severely compromised skin barrier
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESIdeal match. Effectively controls excess sebum, mattifies skin, and keeps shine at bay throughout the day without over-stripping.
Great for balancing T-zone oiliness while the glycerin prevents drying out cheeks. Focus application on oily areas.
Salicylic acid helps prevent breakouts and unclog pores. Non-comedogenic formula won't trigger new blemishes.
Dermatologist and sensitive skin tested, but contains fragrance. Patch test recommended. May be too strong for very reactive skin.
May feel slightly drying despite glycerin content. Use only in PM or alternate with a gentler hydrating cleanser. Follow with rich moisturizer.
Results timeline
ONGOING USEImmediate Clean Feel
Skin feels thoroughly cleansed and refreshed after each use. Noticeable reduction in surface oil and shine. Some users may experience initial dryness as skin adjusts.
90% noticed cleaner feelingPore Refinement
Visible reduction in pore congestion. Blackheads become less prominent. Skin texture starts to feel smoother. Oil control throughout the day improves.
75% noticed smaller-looking poresClearer Complexion
Reduced frequency of new breakouts. Overall complexion appears clearer and more balanced. Skin's natural moisture levels regulate. Optimal results with consistent use.
70% reported fewer breakoutsMaintained Results
Continued oil control and pore minimization with daily use. Best results when used as part of a complete Effaclar routine with toner and moisturizer.
85% would repurchaseRatings by platform
9K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Effectively removes oil, dirt, makeup, and sunscreen
- Creamy texture transforms into luxurious foam
- Leaves skin feeling clean without "squeaky" tightness
- Visibly minimizes appearance of pores
- Dermatologist-recommended and clinically tested
- A little product goes a long way
- Suitable for daily AM and PM use
- Part of comprehensive Effaclar acne system
Criticized
- Contains fragrance that may irritate sensitive noses
- Can be drying for non-oily skin types
- Not suitable for fungal acne sufferers
- Relatively small size (4.2 oz) for the price
- May cause initial adjustment period with slight dryness
- Salicylic acid concentration not disclosed
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESLarger size (12 oz), fragrance-free formula with ceramides and niacinamide. Gentler but lacks salicylic acid for acne-fighting benefits.
Contains 2% salicylic acid for stronger acne-fighting action. More affordable but can be more drying and has stronger fragrance.
Contains 0.5% salicylic acid, fragrance-free. More gentle formula but equally effective for oily skin. Slightly smaller size (6 oz).
Contains 2% salicylic acid plus zinc. More affordable option but gel texture rather than cream-to-foam. Can be more drying.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEStorage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep cap tightly closed.
Squeezable tube with flip-top cap. Hygienic dispensing prevents contamination.
Yes, 4.2 oz is over 3.4 oz TSA limit. Purchase travel size or decant for flights.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThis cleanser contains salicylic acid, which requires caution during pregnancy. While low-dose topical salicylic acid (under 2%) is generally considered acceptable by ACOG (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists), it's recommended to consult your healthcare provider before use. For breastfeeding, topical salicylic acid at low concentrations is unlikely to be absorbed into breastmilk, but avoid applying near areas that may contact your baby.
No, this cleanser is NOT fungal acne safe. It contains multiple fatty acids including Myristic Acid, Stearic Acid, Lauric Acid, and Palmitic Acid, which are known to feed the Malassezia yeast that causes fungal acne. If you have malassezia folliculitis, consider the La Roche-Posay Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser instead, which is fungal acne safe.
Yes, but with caution. Since this cleanser contains salicylic acid (a BHA), using it with other exfoliating acids (AHA/BHA serums) may increase irritation risk. With retinol, you can use this cleanser but start slowly - cleanse, wait for skin to dry, then apply retinol. For vitamin C, there's no interaction concern. If you're new to acids, introduce products gradually and watch for signs of over-exfoliation like redness, peeling, or stinging.
This cleanser is specifically formulated for oily and acne-prone skin. It's excellent for combination skin types as well, particularly when focused on T-zone areas. Those with sensitive skin can use it but should patch test first due to the fragrance content. It's not ideal for dry or very sensitive skin types as it may feel too stripping.
Most users notice an immediate clean feeling and reduced oiliness from the first use. Visible pore refinement typically appears within 2-4 weeks of consistent twice-daily use. For acne prevention and overall complexion improvement, expect 4-8 weeks for optimal results. As a cleanser, it's best used as part of a complete skincare routine for maximum benefits.
This cleanser should be the first step in your skincare routine, used on wet skin. For those who wear makeup or sunscreen, consider double cleansing - use an oil-based cleanser first, then follow with this foaming cleanser. Use morning and/or evening before applying toners, serums, moisturizers, and sunscreen (AM only).
No, this cleanser is non-comedogenic and won't clog pores. It has a comedogenic rating of approximately 2/5. The formula is designed to deeply cleanse pores and remove the buildup that causes congestion. However, it does contain fatty acids that are washed off during cleansing, so they shouldn't cause clogging. It's tested to be suitable for acne-prone skin.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Once opened, use within one year for optimal efficacy and safety. Store in a cool, dry place with the cap tightly closed. The 4.2 oz tube typically lasts 2-3 months with twice-daily use, so you should easily finish it before the PAO expires.
Verdict: La Roche-Posay Effaclar Deep Cleansing Foaming Cream is an excellent choice for those with oily and acne-prone skin seeking a dermatologist-approved cleanser that delivers real results. The cream-to-foam texture provides a satisfying cleanse while salicylic acid works to keep pores clear. While the fragrance and fatty acid content make it unsuitable for fungal acne or very sensitive skin, it remains a solid French pharmacy staple for oil control. For best value, consider the larger Effaclar Medicated Gel Cleanser if you need fragrance-free or fungal acne safe options. Overall, a reliable daily cleanser that lives up to the La Roche-Posay reputation for science-backed, dermatologist-tested skincare.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Myristic Acid
Perfuming, Fragrance, Emulsifying, Opacifying, Sufactant
|
|
|
| 0 |
Potassium Hydroxide
Buffering
|
|
|
| 1 |
Glyceryl Stearate SE
Surfactant, Emulsifying
|
|







